Hello, my name is Elaine, I’m married with two grown up sons and I am also a childminder.
Before my diagnosis, I was an avid baker, and I enjoyed going to bootcamp classes and clubercise.
However, all this changed in April 2023, when I was diagnosed with primary tonsil cancer that had spread to my lymph nodes.
After the diagnosis I remember being scared and in shock.
You never think it is going to be you. Even after learning that one in two people will be affected by cancer, it still doesn’t cross your mind that it will be yourself.
I was treated at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool, where I had six weeks of radiotherapy, so 30 sessions in total, as well as two days of chemotherapy.
It was during my first chemotherapy session that I was admitted to the hospital for five days, as I was so poorly. On one of the days, a young girl came into my room and played the flute, and it was amazing and so emotional. I remember it being a dark day, as I was stuck in the room, but this gave me the boost I needed.
And on a different day when I was in radiotherapy, a lady playing a different instrument asked if I wanted to listen to her play and remembering when I heard the flute and how I felt I said yes, and once again it was beautiful and uplifting.
It is just a small thing, but hearing these musicians helps take your mind of cancer and treatment. So, I was pleased to hear that the musicians are one of the many things funded by Clatterbridge Cancer Charity due to their partnership with the Royal Philharmonic Hall and it really does make a difference.
Plus, all the staff are absolutely amazing. Everyone in radiotherapy looked after me and I felt completely supported. If I ever needed anything then I could just ask someone, as everyone is so kind. It really is a wonderful place.
Currently, I am now cancer free and still go back every few months for check-ups and I have resumed child minding.
I knew that I wanted to give something back, which is why this year I took part in the Glow Green Night Walk with friends. My friends had done the walk last year on my behalf, which I couldn’t join them for. They all had a photo of me on their backs which was lovely. It was nice this year to join in with them and raise funds for the Charity.
At the end of the walk, my two sons came to meet me, and I had no idea. It was such a beautiful and emotional moment and one of my sons said to me that he felt inspired watching it all and it was really touching.
